The One Hypnosis Author Every Hypnotist Should Read
If someone asked me to recommend just one author on hypnosis, my answer would be simple: Ormond McGill.
Although I never had the privilege of meeting him in person, I have enormous respect for what he contributed to the world of hypnosis. Known as the “Dean of American Hypnotists,” McGill laid the foundation for much of what modern hypnotists teach today.
Many contemporary books borrow ideas that originated with him. That’s why I always encourage students to go back to the source.
A Missed Opportunity I’ll Always Regret
Around 1995, I was invited to attend what turned out to be Ormond McGill’s final stage hypnosis training in Las Vegas.
At the time, I was overwhelmed with work and decided not to go.
I had no idea it would be his last seminar.
To this day, I regret that decision. Even having a photo with him would have been something I would treasure today.
So here’s my advice:
Whenever you have the opportunity to learn from a true master, take it. Attend the seminar, ask questions, listen to their stories, and don’t forget to take a picture. You never know when that opportunity will be gone forever.
A Fascinating Life in Hypnosis
One of the books I highly recommend is Ormond McGill’s autobiography.
It’s over 400 pages long and tells the story of a man who dedicated more than 90 years of his life to the study and practice of hypnosis. McGill began his career back in the 1930s, making him one of the true pioneers of modern hypnosis.
This isn’t just another hypnosis manual. It’s a fascinating journey through the history of hypnosis, entertainment, and human psychology, told by someone who lived it.
The Encyclopedia Every Hypnotist Should Own
If you’re looking for practical knowledge, then The New Encyclopedia of Stage Hypnotism is an absolute masterpiece.
At nearly 600 pages, it’s one of the most comprehensive books ever written on the subject.
Inside you’ll find:
- Hundreds of hypnotic inductions
- Countless stage hypnosis techniques
- Detailed illustrations and photographs
- Practical demonstrations and explanations
- Small tips and nuances that only decades of experience can provide
Although the book focuses on stage hypnosis rather than hypnotherapy, don’t let that fool you.
Many of the induction methods and principles can be adapted for therapeutic work. In fact, I still use many of the ideas I learned from this book with my own hypnotherapy clients, always adapting them to a clinical setting.
Go Back to the Original Source
Today there are thousands of books, courses, and online videos about hypnosis.
Many of them present techniques as if they were new.
The truth is that a large number of those techniques can be traced back to Ormond McGill.
That’s why I always recommend studying the classics. When you read McGill, you’re learning directly from one of the people who shaped modern hypnosis.
More Than a Stage Hypnotist
What made Ormond McGill unique was that his curiosity extended far beyond stage hypnosis.
He explored the spiritual aspects of hypnosis, traveled extensively in India, and studied Eastern traditions, yogis, and fakirs. His lifelong curiosity and willingness to learn from different cultures gave him a remarkably broad understanding of the human mind.
His productivity was extraordinary. Few people could write books as comprehensive as his, and even today they remain valuable resources for anyone serious about hypnosis.
My Recommendation
If you’re building your hypnosis library, make sure Ormond McGill is part of it.
His books are still available through bookstores and online retailers, and I highly recommend buying an original copy whenever possible.
Sometimes the best way to move forward is to return to the people who built the foundations.
Ormond McGill was one of those people, and his work continues to inspire hypnotists around the world.